The Growling City of Mumbai

After a grueling 26-hour train ride traversing India from Middle Northeast to West, we finally arrive in Mumbai, the country’s largest city with a staggering 16 million residents. Brace yourself for a city pulsating with energy: with 40,000 taxis in the downtown area and 120,000 tuk-tuks in the suburbs, Mumbai roars day and night in a chaotic rhythm. Open your eyes wide and let them witness the captivating contrast of social classes: from orphans playing by their slums along the train tracks to wealthy businessmen tirelessly working on their real estate endeavors.

As we stroll through the streets of Colaba, we seek out corner restaurants teeming with tourists, a blend of Westerners and South Indians. On the streets, incredibly young and undernourished children tap on your leg, pleading for some rice. “No money. Just rice, please.” How can you resist? Dinner leftovers are tenderly placed beside their sleeping bodies at the end of the night. Some very young ladies approach with a tiny doll in their arms, asking for milk. It takes a moment to realize that this miniature creature is, in fact, a real baby.

Taking advantage of our stay in a bustling metropolis, we decide to relax and immerse ourselves in the attractions it has to offer. Leisurely walks through the streets, exploring the myriad stands lining the sidewalks, and even a day at Mumbai’s Water Kingdom, the largest water park in Asia (packed with visitors but undeniably enjoyable). For the ladies, there’s a unique requirement to cover up in long-sleeved shirts and long tights – a departure from our usual attire, but a small price for the experience. As night falls, we cruise through the streets in search of a cozy place to eat. Jess and I are approached by an agent offering us roles in a Bollywood movie. A tempting invitation that we ultimately decline, choosing instead to enjoy a delightful dinner among friends with some delectable seafood and affordable wines.